As some expected to be the case, Gunner Kiel is embracing life as starting quarterback for the upcoming 2014 season at Cincinnati. Kiel will replace Munchie Legaux under center, although Legaux will be the team’s top back-up. For Kiel, the chance to finally be the starting quarterback is not something that will be taken lightly.
“The first few days were a little shaky,” Kiel said to the Associated Press. “I think I came out anxious and excited. I think that got me to play a little uncomfortable. So at times I have to calm down and relax and play the game I love, not do too much. I know I’m going to make mistakes, but learn from the mistakes.”
Kiel sat out the 2013 season after transferring from Notre Dame to Cincinnati. Kiel likely would have had a chance to start for Notre Dame last season had he stayed, with Everett Golson being dismissed for academic reasons. Tommy Rees was Notre Dame’s starter and Kiel had already made the decision to leave for Cincinnati, and he stuck with it. Last week we named Kiel one of the top key transfers for the upcoming season.
Kiel will also be in charge of leading a team many expect to win the American Athletic Conference, and perhaps play into the big revenue bowl conversation along the way. The highest-ranked conference champion from the AAC, Conference USA, MAC, Mountain West Conference or Sun Belt will be guaranteed a spot in one of the College Football Playoff bowls (the Orange Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Peach Bowl or Cotton Bowl this season). Cincinnati has been voted the preseason favorite in the AAC through a media poll, but ranking high enough in the eyes of the selection committee will be a challenge. Cincinnati has road games at Ohio State and Miami this season.
Legaux was awarded an extra season of eligibility by the NCAA after seeing his 2013 season end quickly with a knee injury. Legaux continues to get back to 100 percent, but is reportedly ready to embrace his role as the team’s back-up. Cincinnati may find some ways to get him involved on offense if he is healthy.